Glen River (County Down) facts for kids
The Glen River is a small but mighty river located in County Down, Northern Ireland. It's only about two-mile (3.2 km) long, but it travels a long way down! This river starts high up in the famous Mourne Mountains, flowing from the bottom of Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Donard. It then makes its way north-east, eventually emptying into Dundrum Bay at a town called Newcastle. Along its journey, the river drops an amazing 1,500 feet (460 m)!
Contents
What Makes the Glen River Special?
The Glen River is known for being very fast-flowing. You'll find many small waterfalls and deep pools along its path. Imagine the water rushing over rocks and creating these beautiful features!
The River's Path and Surroundings
The ground beneath the river changes as it flows. In the higher parts, the river flows over hard granite rock. But as it gets lower, the rock changes to a darker type called shale.
The river winds its way through two lovely areas: Donard Forest and Donard Park. It's a popular spot for people to visit! You'll see five bridges crossing the river, making it easy to explore both sides. A path runs right beside the river, and many walkers use it when they are climbing up Slieve Donard.
The Mysterious Ice House
Right beside the river, just before it enters Donard Forest, you'll find a very old and interesting building called an ice house. This special building was constructed way back in the 1830s. It was built by the third Earl of Annesley, a wealthy landowner, to help keep food and drinks cold at his large home nearby, called Donard Lodge. Before refrigerators existed, ice houses were used to store ice collected in winter, keeping things cool all year round!
Images for kids
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The mouth of the river, where it meets the sea.
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The old Donard Icehouse, built in the 1830s.
